John Adams has a mess on his hands. The chaos of the Continental Congress is working his last nerve. His style loud and intimidating. The rest of the congressmen, however, are used to it. Some have settled in, others still maintaining formality. Adams must convince them to compose a declaration of independence, unheard of and stupefying. The tyranny of Great Britain is unmistakable and unconscionable. Yet some members still want to make nice, and play along. Adams enlists two confederates, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson (with some persuasion).
Such is the premise of Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone’s musical: 1776. It seems to me period pieces are often a hard sell. Edwards and Stone show us the nuts and bolts of seachange, both madcap and remarkable, forging of a document that will resonate for more than 200 years. It may not be as juicy as say, Jefferson and Sally Hemings, but they pull it off. They humanize well known historical figures: Martha Jefferson, Abigail Adams, John Hancock, Reverend John Witherspoon, Samuel Chase, Richard Henry Lee, et al. They’re not above silly songs and playful jigs, but perfectly capable when it comes to romance and high drama.
Director Eric Levy has orchestrated this ridiculously large cast (25!?) with precision and poise. There’s quite a bit of crossfire dialogue. Complicated blocking, mood shifts, despondent moments. Levy dives right into the midst of this engaging narrative, and takes the rest of us with him. Even that lady with the huge, green hat. We’re caught up in the intensity, atmosphere, and disappointment that came with Continental Congress, finding common ground on a world-changing, gargantuan decision. Kudos to Mr. Levy for the ingenuity, strategy and sharp navigation he managed with finesse.
Allen Contemporary Theatre presented a delightful spectacle of our forefathers, hammering out the details of our Declaration of Independence. Memorable tunes from chipper to somber. Impeccable timing. Testosterone fueled brawling. The actors are top of their game, perfect harmony and disharmony, authentic and avid commitment to character. Sparkling and convivial. Truly a submersive, remarkable production.
Many thanks to Allen Contemporary Theatre, that found room for me on closing weekend.
Allen Contemporary Theatre. 1210 E Main Street, #300, Allen, TX, United States, 75002. allencontemporarytheatre.net (844) 822-8849